Sociology Chapter 14.1: Power and Authority

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What is the essential aspect of power in any society?

The distribution of resources among specific groups

The ability to make decisions solely to benefit oneself

The allocation of resources to benefit the society as a whole

The ability to have one's will carried out despite the resistance of others (correct)

What is the primary reason why some individuals and groups have more power than others?

They are able to allocate resources to benefit themselves

They are able to resist the influence of others

They are able to make decisions that benefit the society as a whole

They are able to exercise their will despite the resistance of others (correct)

In the context of politics, what is the primary function of polity?

To distribute power among individuals and groups (correct)

To exercise power over others

To allocate resources to benefit the society as a whole

To make decisions regarding the distribution of resources

What is the main difference between politics and polity?

Politics refers to the distribution of power, while polity refers to the exercise of power Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary consequence of having more power than others in a society?

The ability to exercise one's will despite the resistance of others Signup and view all the answers

What is the example of raw power mentioned in the text?

A police car in one's rearview mirror Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason why charismatic authority is relatively unstable?

The authority held by a charismatic leader may not easily extend to anyone else after the leader dies Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe the transformation of charismatic authority into traditional or rational-legal authority?

Routinization of charisma Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the sociologist who identified the three types of legitimate authority?

Max Weber Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between traditional and rational-legal authority?

One is based on tradition, the other on rational-legal principles Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for charismatic leaders to designate a replacement leader?

To ensure their authority is transferable after their death Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe the ability to have one's will carried out despite the resistance of others?

Power Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of rational-legal authority?

It is vested in the office that an individual holds Signup and view all the answers

What is the advantage of rational-legal authority in times of crisis?

It ensures a smooth transfer of power Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary source of charismatic authority?

An individual's extraordinary personal qualities Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following leaders is an example of charismatic authority?

Martin Luther King Jr. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between rational-legal authority and charismatic authority?

Rational-legal authority is more stable, while charismatic authority is less stable Signup and view all the answers

What is the reason for the instability of charismatic authority?

It is difficult to transfer authority to another leader after the charismatic leader's death Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between charismatic authority and traditional authority?

Charismatic authority is a separate form of authority that can coexist with traditional authority Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the U.S. Constitution in the transfer of power?

It provides a mechanism for the transfer of power in times of crisis Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the fact that the transfer of power in the U.S. is usually smooth and stable?

It is a reflection of the stability of the U.S. political system Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between a charismatic leader and a non-charismatic leader?

A charismatic leader has extraordinary personal qualities, while a non-charismatic leader does not Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of social scientists when studying power?

The grander and often invisible forms of power behind the scenes Signup and view all the answers

What is the key characteristic of legitimate authority, according to Max Weber?

It is considered just and appropriate by those over whom it is exercised Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary basis of traditional authority in a society?

The traditional beliefs and practices of the society Signup and view all the answers

What is the key difference between traditional authority and rational-legal authority?

Traditional authority is based on custom, while rational-legal authority is based on law Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason why some individuals enjoy traditional authority?

They are the children or relatives of people who already exercise traditional authority Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential drawback of traditional authority?

It is not based on the leader's qualifications or abilities Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of rational-legal authority?

It is based on the belief in the legitimacy of a society's laws and rules Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between power and legitimate authority?

Power is considered unjust, while legitimate authority is considered just and appropriate Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of Max Weber's work on power and authority?

The differences between traditional and rational-legal authority Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of charismatic authority?

It is based on the leader's charisma and persuasive abilities Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of politics in a society?

To make decisions regarding the allocation of resources Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between individuals and groups with more power and those with less power?

Those with more power can have their will carried out despite the resistance of others Signup and view all the answers

What happens when an individual sees a police car in their rearview mirror?

They make sure to strictly obey the speed limit and all other driving rules Signup and view all the answers

What do specific people and organizations make decisions about in a society?

The allocation of resources and other matters Signup and view all the answers

Why do decisions need to be made in a society?

Because resources are scarce and need to be allocated Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between power and authority in a society?

Power is the ability to exercise authority Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of social scientists when studying power?

Identifying the sources of power in a society Signup and view all the answers

What is the main characteristic of traditional authority?

It is based on custom and tradition Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between traditional authority and rational-legal authority?

One is based on custom, the other on law Signup and view all the answers

Who identified the three types of legitimate authority?

Max Weber Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of rational-legal authority?

It is based on law and rules Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between power and legitimate authority?

Power is based on force, while legitimate authority is based on consent Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of charismatic authority?

It is based on charisma and personal appeal Signup and view all the answers

Why is traditional authority often unstable?

Because the individuals granted authority may not be well qualified Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason why some individuals enjoy traditional authority?

Because of their inheritance or supposed divine designation Signup and view all the answers

What is the main advantage of rational-legal authority?

It is more effective in times of crisis Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary basis of rational-legal authority?

The office that an individual fills Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following leaders is an example of rational-legal authority?

The President of the United States Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of charismatic authority?

It is usually unstable Signup and view all the answers

What happens to charismatic authority when the leader dies?

It dies with the leader Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of traditional authority?

It is based on inheritance or divine designation Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the transfer of power in the U.S. being smooth and stable?

It is a marvel of democracy Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between charismatic leaders and non-charismatic leaders?

Charismatic leaders have extraordinary personal qualities Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of rational-legal authority in the U.S.?

The authority of the President Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of rational-legal authority?

It is based on the office held Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of traditional authority?

It is more stable than rational-legal authority Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of charismatic leaders designating a replacement leader?

To guarantee the continuation of their charismatic authority beyond their death Signup and view all the answers

How can charismatic authority become more stable according to Weber?

Through the development of rules and bureaucratic structures Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason why rational-legal authority is generally more stable than charismatic authority?

Because it is based on rules and bureaucratic structures Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe the transformation of charismatic authority into traditional or rational-legal authority?

Routinization of charisma Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between charismatic authority and traditional authority?

Charismatic authority is based on the leader's personality and charisma, while traditional authority is based on custom and tradition Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of Max Weber's work on power and authority?

Exploring the relationship between power and authority Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of politics in a society?

The distribution and exercise of power Signup and view all the answers

What is the ability to have one's will carried out despite the resistance of others?

Power Signup and view all the answers

What happens when an individual sees a police car in their rearview mirror?

They obey the speed limit and all other driving rules Signup and view all the answers

Who makes decisions regarding the allocation of resources and other matters in a society?

Specific people and organizations Signup and view all the answers

Why do individuals and groups have more power than others in a society?

Because they make decisions regarding the allocation of resources Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe the institution through which power is distributed and exercised?

Polity Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of social scientists when studying power?

Who wields it and for whose benefit Signup and view all the answers

What is the basis of legitimate authority, according to Weber?

Law and rules Signup and view all the answers

What is traditional authority based on?

Inheritance and custom Signup and view all the answers

What type of authority is common in preindustrial societies?

Traditional authority Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic of traditional authority?

Granted regardless of qualifications Signup and view all the answers

What is the hallmark of modern democracies?

Rational-legal authority Signup and view all the answers

Who distinguished legitimate authority from other types of power?

Max Weber Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between traditional authority and rational-legal authority?

One is based on custom, the other on law Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the example of the police car in the text?

It illustrates the use of power Signup and view all the answers

What type of authority is characterized by a belief in the legitimacy of a society's laws and rules?

Rational-legal authority Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of rational-legal authority in the United States?

Residing in the office that an individual fills Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for charismatic leaders to designate a replacement leader?

To stabilize their authority Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the authority of the president of the United States when they leave office?

It is transferred to the next president Signup and view all the answers

What happens to charismatic authority when the leader dies?

It may not be easily accepted by followers Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe the transformation of charismatic authority?

Routinization of charisma Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of charismatic authority?

Martin Luther King Jr. Signup and view all the answers

Why is charismatic authority relatively unstable?

Because it dies with the charismatic leader Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between charismatic authority and traditional authority?

Traditional authority is based on bloodlines Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the transfer of power in the United States?

It is a sign of a stable democracy Signup and view all the answers

Why is rational-legal authority generally more stable than charismatic authority?

Because it is based on rules and bureaucratic structures Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of power?

The ability to have one's will carried out despite the resistance of others Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the U.S. Constitution in the transfer of power?

It provides for the transfer of power when the presidency is vacant Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between charismatic authority and traditional authority?

Charismatic authority stems from an individual’s extraordinary personal qualities, while traditional authority stems from tradition or lineage Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of traditional authority?

Residing in an individual because of inheritance or divine designation Signup and view all the answers

What happens when a charismatic leader dies?

Their authority dies with them Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of rational-legal authority?

To ensure an orderly transfer of power Signup and view all the answers

Sociology Chapter 14.1: Power and Authority

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Questions and Answers

What is the essential aspect of power in any society?

What is the primary reason why some individuals and groups have more power than others?

In the context of politics, what is the primary function of polity?

What is the main difference between politics and polity?

What is the primary consequence of having more power than others in a society?

What is the example of raw power mentioned in the text?

What is the primary reason why charismatic authority is relatively unstable?

What is the term used to describe the transformation of charismatic authority into traditional or rational-legal authority?

What is the name of the sociologist who identified the three types of legitimate authority?

What is the primary difference between traditional and rational-legal authority?

Why is it important for charismatic leaders to designate a replacement leader?

What is the term used to describe the ability to have one's will carried out despite the resistance of others?

What is the primary characteristic of rational-legal authority?

What is the advantage of rational-legal authority in times of crisis?

What is the primary source of charismatic authority?

Which of the following leaders is an example of charismatic authority?

What is the main difference between rational-legal authority and charismatic authority?

What is the reason for the instability of charismatic authority?

What is the relationship between charismatic authority and traditional authority?

What is the role of the U.S. Constitution in the transfer of power?

What is the significance of the fact that the transfer of power in the U.S. is usually smooth and stable?

What is the primary difference between a charismatic leader and a non-charismatic leader?

What is the primary focus of social scientists when studying power?

What is the key characteristic of legitimate authority, according to Max Weber?

What is the primary basis of traditional authority in a society?

What is the key difference between traditional authority and rational-legal authority?

What is the primary reason why some individuals enjoy traditional authority?

What is a potential drawback of traditional authority?

What is the primary characteristic of rational-legal authority?

What is the primary difference between power and legitimate authority?

What is the primary focus of Max Weber's work on power and authority?

What is the primary characteristic of charismatic authority?

What is the primary function of politics in a society?

What is the main difference between individuals and groups with more power and those with less power?

What happens when an individual sees a police car in their rearview mirror?

What do specific people and organizations make decisions about in a society?

Why do decisions need to be made in a society?

What is the relationship between power and authority in a society?

What is the primary focus of social scientists when studying power?

What is the main characteristic of traditional authority?

What is the main difference between traditional authority and rational-legal authority?

Who identified the three types of legitimate authority?

What is the primary characteristic of rational-legal authority?

What is the main difference between power and legitimate authority?

What is the primary characteristic of charismatic authority?

Why is traditional authority often unstable?

What is the primary reason why some individuals enjoy traditional authority?

What is the main advantage of rational-legal authority?

What is the primary basis of rational-legal authority?

Which of the following leaders is an example of rational-legal authority?

What is a characteristic of charismatic authority?

What happens to charismatic authority when the leader dies?

What is a characteristic of traditional authority?

What is the significance of the transfer of power in the U.S. being smooth and stable?

What is the difference between charismatic leaders and non-charismatic leaders?

Which of the following is an example of rational-legal authority in the U.S.?

What is the primary characteristic of rational-legal authority?

What is a characteristic of traditional authority?

What is the purpose of charismatic leaders designating a replacement leader?

How can charismatic authority become more stable according to Weber?

What is the primary reason why rational-legal authority is generally more stable than charismatic authority?

What is the term used to describe the transformation of charismatic authority into traditional or rational-legal authority?

What is the primary difference between charismatic authority and traditional authority?

What is the primary focus of Max Weber's work on power and authority?

What is the primary focus of politics in a society?

What is the ability to have one's will carried out despite the resistance of others?

What happens when an individual sees a police car in their rearview mirror?

Who makes decisions regarding the allocation of resources and other matters in a society?

Why do individuals and groups have more power than others in a society?

What is the term used to describe the institution through which power is distributed and exercised?

What is the primary focus of social scientists when studying power?

What is the basis of legitimate authority, according to Weber?

What is traditional authority based on?

What type of authority is common in preindustrial societies?

What is the characteristic of traditional authority?

What is the hallmark of modern democracies?